86
Legionella
pneumophila
an be isolated from several clinical samples;
however, the samples of the lower respiratory tract are considered the
choice samples. Nevertheless, because of the low survival of
Legionella
pneumophila
in respiratory secretions, the processing of these samples is a
priority.
The Figure 01 below illustrates the appearance of the colonies of
Legionella
pneumophila in appropriate culture medium.
6.1.2 - Detection of
Legionella
by direct fluorescence antibody (DFA)
The microscopic examination of the samples in lung tissue and
respiratory secretions through the redirect search of fluorescent antibodies
was the first method used to detect
Legionella
pneumophila.
This methodology has sensitivity ranging between 25 and 75% when
compared to the culture and the specificity is considered greater than 95%
when performed by experienced professional.
Themain advantage of the referredmethod is the possibility of detection
of
Legionella
in samples of respiratory secretions for several days after the
Figure 01
– Appearance of the colonies of
Legionella
pneumophila
in appropriate culture medium.
